Our Alpine Countries Adventure
Welcome to our travel journal — a heartfelt documentation of an unforgettable 14-day journey through the heart of the Alpine region in the three German-speaking countries: Germany (Day 1-4, 7-9), Switzerland (Day 5, 6) and Austria (Day 10-14).
Day 4 : Black Forest & Swiss Fondue at Jungfrau Hotel
A Day of Black Forest Charm and Alpine Thrills: From Historic Farms to Swiss Peaks
Our journey took us deep into the enchanting Black Forest of Germany, where time seems to slow down amid rolling hills and dense evergreen woods. We began at the Schwarzwälder Freilichtmuseum Vogtsbauernhof — the Black Forest Open Air Museum in Gutach — a living snapshot of rural life spanning up to 600 years.
Wandering through the sprawling grounds felt like stepping into a storybook. Historic farmhouses, carefully relocated and restored from different parts of the region, stood proudly with their signature steep roofs and wooden frames. The centerpiece, the Vogtsbauernhof farmhouse from 1612, anchored the site alongside barns, mills, and workshops. We explored dimly lit "black kitchens" still carrying faint echoes of woodsmoke, admired old breeds of animals grazing peacefully, and imagined daily life in centuries past — from grain milling to traditional craftsmanship. The fresh mountain air, combined with the peaceful rural setting, made it a truly immersive and relaxing experience.
Hunger soon called, and we enjoyed a hearty lunch right there at the museum — simple, wholesome fare that perfectly matched the historic surroundings, perhaps with a side of local Black Forest specialties.
Energized and ready for some adrenaline, we headed just a short distance away to the nearby Sommerrodelbahn Gutach (Gutach summer toboggan run), often called the "Black Forest Bob." This thrilling adventure luge ride snakes down the hillside for over 1,150 meters of twists, turns, and sweeping views of the surrounding forest. Strapped into the two-seater carts, we zoomed along the track, controlling our speed through hairpin bends and gentle rises. The wind in our faces and the laughter echoing as we raced (or cautiously cruised) made it an exhilarating highlight — pure fun after the more contemplative museum visit.
As the afternoon wore on, we set off for the next chapter of our adventure: crossing into Switzerland toward the car-free mountain village of Mürren in the Jungfrau region. The drive took us through scenic valleys and past dramatic landscapes, a fitting transition from the cozy woodlands of the Black Forest to the towering majesty of the Bernese Alps.
Arriving in Mürren felt like entering another world — a quiet, pedestrian-only paradise perched high above the Lauterbrunnen Valley, with unbeatable views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks. After settling in, we headed to the Hotel Jungfrau for dinner, where we indulged in a classic Swiss cheese fondue. The bubbling pot of melted Gruyère and Emmental, accompanied by chunks of crusty bread, boiled potatoes, and pickles, was the perfect cozy end to the day. Dipping and savoring each bite while the sun set over the snow-capped giants outside was pure magic — warm, comforting, and utterly memorable.
From the timeless traditions of the Black Forest to the heart-pounding excitement of the luge and the serene beauty of the Alps, this day blended culture, adventure, and indulgence in the best possible way. It reminded us why this corner of Europe keeps drawing travelers back: the perfect mix of history, nature, and unforgettable flavors.
